An unfortunate Starling.

These birds spent several minutes chasing each other through the branches of this tree, just a few metres away from a fairly busy footpath. I assumed it was courtship, but given the time of year, maybe territorial behaviour is more likely? Either way, they were quite unconcerned about my presence.

No, I wasn’t tape luring. Nor was I trespassing, loitering with intent, coveting my neighbour’s ox, or thinking impure thoughts.Let me know if there’s anything else you were worried about.

I think this has been a particularly good year for them, especially in the spring. And a pair did breed in the midlands apparently. There aren’t many around this late in the year though.